Kessab is safe for Armenians to return

YEREVAN, June 17. / ARKA /. Syria’s mainly-Armenian-populated town of Kessab is now safe for its residents to return back home, according to Ruben Safrastyan, head of Institute of Oriental Studies of the National Academy of Sciences.

The strategically important town was recaptured by the Syrian military on June 15. The town was overrun by jihadist rebels in March, with much blame placed on Turkey for reportedly allowing the crossover to happen.

Safrastyan said the area is now fully safe and is entirely under the control of the Syrian government forces. “This means that security in Kesap is restored and its residents can safely return to their homes,” said Safrastian Tuesday at a press conference.

He added that many residents of Kessab who had found temporary refuge in nearby Latakia are gradually returning home.

In his words, although the town was damaged severely by the rebels, in could be restored in short time. He urged the government in Yerevan to assist Kessab Armenians. -0-